The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has granted approval for Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to extend the operation of the 3.1GW Pickering nuclear generating station’s (PNGS) “B” units until December 2026.
The independent commission’s decision permits Ontario Power Generation to run Units 5-8 of the nuclear facility, for an additional two years beyond the original 2024 deadline.
The latest amendment authorises operation of the facility up to a maximum of 305,000 equivalent full power hours (EFPH), which is an update from the prior maximum of 295,000 EFPH. The new licence also includes a condition requiring Ontario Power Generation to deploy an improved fitness-for-service programme.
Located in Pickering, Ontario, the Pickering nuclear generating station consists of two reactor facilities, which include eight CANada Deuterium Uranium (CANDU) reactor units along with their associated equipment.
Ontario Power Generation’s operating licence for the nuclear plant is valid until 31 August 2028.
The plant’s units 5–8 commenced operations between 1983 and 1986. These units generate 2GW of electricity, enough to power two million households.
Ontario Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce said: “The continued operation of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will allow for the safe production of reliable, affordable and clean power we need, as well as life-saving medical isotopes to combat cancer.
“Our government will continue to advance Ontario’s nuclear advantage as we keep costs down for families across Ontario.”
Ontario Power Generation employs around 4,500 staff to support ongoing operations at the Pickering nuclear facility, with an estimated 7,500 jobs in Ontario tied to the facility.
The CNSC’s decision follows a public hearing held in June 2024.
Earlier this year, the Ontario government announced its support for Ontario Power Generation’s plans to move forward with the refurbishment of the Pickering nuclear plant’s “B” units.
The provincial government backed OPG’s C$2bn ($1.45bn) budget for the project, which covers engineering, design work, and the procurement of long-lead components, some of which take years to manufacture.
